Boston is a year-round destination, but the experience shifts dramatically depending on the month. One month you’re walking under cherry blossoms, the next you’re sweating at Fenway, and a few weeks later you’re bundled up with hot chowder in hand.

Here’s a month-by-month guide to visiting Boston, with weather, crowds, and seasonal highlights to help you pick the perfect time.

January

Cold and quiet. Boston is usually blanketed in snow, and while it’s not peak travel season, it’s a great time for cozy city exploring.

Weather: Highs around 36°F, often snowy or icy.
What to do: Ice skating on Frog Pond, warm up with tea at the Boston Public Library, and explore museums without crowds.
Crowds: Very light. Hotel prices drop.

February

Still freezing, but Valentine’s vibes and winter charm make it feel festive.

Weather: Highs around 39°F, still cold.
What to do: Check out the Beacon Hill charm under snow, wander through Faneuil Hall’s holiday lights (they sometimes linger into February), and indulge in cozy Italian dinners in the North End.
Crowds: Light, except around Valentine’s weekend.

March

Boston starts to thaw, but it’s not quite spring yet. Bring layers, and expect the unexpected weather-wise.

Weather: Highs in the mid-40s. Rainy, slushy mix possible.
What to do: St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston is legendary. Duck Tours start running again toward the end of the month.
Crowds: Still low, but St. Patrick’s brings crowds.

April

Spring flowers begin to bloom, but pack that raincoat. April is also Marathon month, so energy levels in the city soar.

Weather: Highs in the 50s. Rain is common.
What to do:
- Boston Marathon (Patriots’ Day, mid-April).
- Public Garden cherry blossoms begin to pop.
Crowds: Marathon week = packed. Otherwise, moderate.

May

May is gorgeous if the weather cooperates — but it’s a gamble. I had three straight days of rain on one trip.

Weather: Highs in the 60s, but rain is frequent.
What to do:
- Memorial Day on Boston Common: 37,000 flags at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, each representing a Massachusetts service member who died in action. It’s breathtaking.
- Stroll Newbury Street or picnic in Boston Common if the sun’s out.
Crowds: Moderate. Shoulder season.

June

Summer officially begins. Outdoor dining kicks off, baseball is in full swing, and festivals pop up everywhere.

Weather: Highs in the 70s, pleasant but warming.
What to do:
- Fenway Park games or tours.
- Harbor cruises and Duck Tours.
Crowds: Growing but not overwhelming yet.

July

Boston in July is hot, busy, and festive. This is peak summer travel.

Weather: Highs in the 80s, humid.
What to do:
- Fourth of July fireworks over the Charles River.
- Patio dining and North End gelato stops.
Crowds: High. Hotel rates spike.

August

August is festival central. Expect heat, crowds, and one of Boston’s most iconic Italian celebrations.

Weather: Highs in the 80s, sticky humidity.
What to do:
- St. Anthony’s Feast in the North End (last weekend of August). Food stalls, confetti parades, live music — it’s wild and worth seeing.
- The Tall Ship for waterfront drinks and lawn games.
Crowds: Very high. Hotels expensive.

September

The sweet spot. Weather is perfect, students return, and the whole city buzzes with energy.

Weather: Highs in the 70s early in the month, cooling into the 60s.
What to do:
- Walk the Freedom Trail without overheating.
- Day trips to Salem or the North Shore.
Crowds: Busy but not unbearable.

October

The most magical time. Fall foliage, crisp air, and Salem goes into full Halloween overdrive.

Weather: Highs in the 60s, crisp and clear.
What to do:
- Salem in October: Witch museums, ghost tours, spooky vibes.
- Beacon Hill foliage and Charles River Esplanade walks.
Crowds: High — especially weekends in Salem.

November

Fall winds down and the city slows a bit. Early November is gorgeous for foliage; later in the month gets chilly.

Weather: Highs in the 40s–50s.
What to do:
- Catch the last of the fall colors.
- Warm up with clam chowder at Neptune Oyster.
Crowds: Moderate, lighter after Thanksgiving.

December

Holiday magic takes over the city. Boston twinkles with lights, skating rinks open, and cozy meals in the North End just feel right.

Weather: Highs in the 30s–40s, often snowy.
What to do:
- Holiday markets and light displays at Faneuil Hall.
- Tea time at the Boston Public Library courtyard — even cozier in winter.
- Ice skating on Frog Pond.
Crowds: Moderate, busier around Christmas/New Year’s.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the best time?

Spring (April–May) if you want flowers, the Marathon, and Memorial Day flags — but be ready for rain.
Summer (June–August) if you love festivals, baseball, and energy (plus St. Anthony’s Feast in August).
Fall (September–October) if you want picture-perfect Boston with foliage, crisp weather, and Salem day trips.
Winter (December–February) if you want cozy vibes, smaller crowds, and cheaper hotels.

No matter the month, Boston has its own flavor — and you’ll eat well in every single one.

The Best Time to Visit Boston: Month by Month Guide